Newer to the game, need advice on dps.

Post by batcann

Im a level 35 elemental shaman and Im not sure exactly where I should be (stat wise) at this point. I joined a dungeon and someone pulled stats (dps), told me I was complete garbage, and was just generally an arse the entire time. I feel like Im dealing out a normal amount of damage, but again, Im new so not too sure. dps is 35.05. I have searched this but the only relevant finds are for level 85-90. any help is greatly appreciated.

Post by totemmunkey

First of all, welcome to World of Warcraft and one of the most fun classes in the game: the Shaman.

You usually want to open with Flame Shock and then Lava Burst (LvB). When LvB is on its cooldown, cast Lightning Bolt (LB) instead. Keep Lightning Shield active at all times, since LB will build up stacks on your shield (thanks to the passive abilities Rolling Thunder and Fulmination). When they reach 7, cast Earth Shock. Rinse & repeat. Also don't forget to cast your Searing Totem at the start of the fight. I usually drop mine after casting Flame Shock but any time near the start is okay.

When you're attacking more than one enemy (at least 3), repeatedly cast Chain Lightning instead until you are down to 1 or 2 enemies, then follow the advice above.

I think I know the reason why that guy was getting aggravated and the source is probably Thunderstorm (TS). While this is a really fun ability and very helpful while playing solo (questing), it's use in dungeons can be extremely frustrating to other players. A tank's duty is to keep enemies attacking them and most of the time that requires rounding them all up and keeping them close to him. It's also hard for other DPS like melee to do their duty as well if their targets keep being bounced away from them. I suggest if you really want to use TS in groups, you should equip the Glyph of Thunderstorm which removes the spell's knockback ability. You can find the glyph on the Auction House or you can pay a player with the Inscription profession to make one for you.

Regarding stats, you'll want Mail gear with Intellect and Spirit (stay away from Strength and Agility). You can wear Leather and Cloth but do be considerate to your teammates who can only wear particular armor. For instance, a Mage can only wear Cloth so if you have one in your group, a Cloth item would better suit him more than you.

That about covers the basics for Elemental at your level. Good luck!

Post by batcann

Thanks so much! This is incredibly helpful!

Post by Kaitha

TBH, you mentioned you can only find guides for 85 to 90. Go to the talent calculator here on Wowhead, look at the abilities gained by the elemental spec after 35.

It's like, passives, 5minute cd's, and your mastery.

The fact is that guides for a 90 shaman apply just as validly as a 35 shaman. If people are ^&*!ing at you in dungeons, either you're abusing TS, or they expect you to be in heirlooms. If the former: STOP, if the latter, ignore them.

TBH, wait for the tank to aggro mobs and just spam CL. Elemental is one of the best cleaves in the game, and once you get echo of the elements and your mastery, you'll be leaving people in the dust on the meters.

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